A D I R O N D A C K   S T A T E   P A R K

Upstate New York

After a bit more riding I see a large lump on the side of the road. It's too big to be a squirrel, maybe it's a possum? As I approach I soon realize it's of all things, a porcupine!

I've never seem a porcupine up close and I find it rather fascinating. Look at those odd feet and thick tail. It must be a fresh kill since no bugs are buzzing around and it has yet to stink. Wow. it's really fat. I'm not sure if it's just bloated from being dead or maybe it's pregnant?

After reaching my bike ride's mid-point I turn around and head back to the van. The ride back is brutal, and upon completion I collapse into the van, thankful the 60 long miles are over. I then drive to and through Lake Placid, camping about 10 miles outside of town at Wilmington Notch Campgrounds.

Tomorrow will be a long day of hiking. I plan to hike Mount Marcy, the tallest mountain peak in New York State at 5,280 feet.

I rise early to get a jump-start on my day. I break camp and head out to Mount Marcy.

Mount Marcy is located just south of Lake Placid. To get there I drive to Lake Placid, then head due south. On the way I see the 90 and 120-meter ski jumps off in the distance.

This is one of the many golf courses in the area. It's a good place to play because if your game sucks, at least you have some nice scenery to look at.